Bucks sheriff claims he faces slander using Holocaust-era language due to his alliance with ICE.

The Bucks County Sheriff’s Department, led by Sheriff Fred Harran, is facing significant opposition as it contemplates a partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under a program known as “287(g).” This initiative, stemming from a section of federal immigration law enacted in 1996, would permit local law enforcement to participate in the enforcement of federal immigration laws. Specifically, it involves training deputies to access federal immigration databases to identify individuals in custody who may have outstanding immigration-related warrants.

In recent statements, Sheriff Harran has addressed the backlash from civil rights groups and community members, emphasizing the need for the department to prioritize public safety. He condemned what he referred to as “Holocaust-era language” used by some critics, asserting it to be deeply offensive, particularly given his status as the only Jewish sheriff in Pennsylvania. This comment followed claims made at public events and on social media, where individuals labeled him a Nazi and associated his actions with historical Gestapo practices.

Opponents of the proposed alliance argue that it would perpetuate racial profiling and erode the trust between local law enforcement and immigrant communities. They contend that the program fosters an environment of fear and could deter victims of crime from seeking assistance. Numerous civil rights organizations, including the ACLU and local immigrant advocacy groups, have mobilized against the initiative. On Wednesday, these organizations are scheduled to hold a news conference to voice their concerns and further amplify public debate on the matter.

Harran maintains that the partnership with ICE is not intended for broad immigration enforcement or arbitrary checks but focuses on individuals who have already committed crimes. He argues that the collaboration is designed to alleviate the financial burden of detaining immigration offenders within county facilities, claiming that it would ultimately serve the community’s safety and interest. However, civil rights advocates have voiced skepticism, asserting that such programs have historically led to discriminatory policing and the wrongful detention of individuals based on immigration status.

As the discussion intensifies, there are growing concerns regarding the broader implications of local law enforcement engaging in federal immigration enforcement, especially in light of initiatives advocated at the federal level, including various state responses to immigration policy shifts. Jurisdictions that have opted out of the 287(g) program cite fears of losing cooperation from immigrant communities and potential legal liabilities stemming from wrongful detentions.

The Bucks County Sheriff’s Department plans to further engage with community members and leaders to clarify the purpose of the initiative and address its effectiveness. However, many community leaders remain steadfast in their opposition, advocating for practices that prioritize community safety without compromising the rights and dignity of immigrant residents.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how local governance and community sentiments will influence the Sheriff’s Department’s decisions regarding this contentious partnership.